The footbridge links Sawtell to the southern end of Boambee Beach, but the old structure had reached the end of its serviceable life so a replacement project was begun earlier this year.

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“[I am] absolutely delighted to see this open as I know how important this footbridge is to the community,” City of Coffs Harbour Mayor Nikki Williams said.

“For the locals it provides access to the dog (off-leash) beach while the bridge has long been a favourite for tourists grabbing that perfect shot for Instagram.”

The new structure features galvanised members with fibre-reinforced plastic decking and has an expected design life of 25 to 35 years.

“We did investigate remedial works to the old footbridge but it was determined that a new build would deliver the best value for the community,” City Infrastructure Director Andrew Beswick said.

“This is an important asset with high utilisation by the community, particularly early of a morning and in the late afternoon by people out for a walk at one of the most picturesque spots on the Coffs Coast.”

Supported by Federal grant funding through the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) program, the footbridge project came within the City’s budgeted allowance of $657,373.

Throughout the build, the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) and its contracting partner worked with the City of Coffs Harbour to minimise disruption to the community and visitors.

The comprehensive upgrade involved extensive work to maintain this critical infrastructure, including the removal of corroded metal, repainting of the eastern rail bridge girder, and the full replacement of the City-owned footbridge structure. Additionally, new security fencing was installed at the northern bridge abutment, ensuring greater safety and security for all users.

“With the completion of these works, the service life of the rail bridge has been significantly extended and importantly the replacement of the vital community footbridge will ensure continued service to residents and visitors for many years to come,” ARTC Group Executive Operations Clinton Crump said.

“We are proud to have partnered with the City of Coffs Harbour to deliver this important footbridge upgrade, and we thank the community for their patience and support during the works.”

Federal Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan also lauded the project, with the funding provided by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts.

“The new Boambee Creek footbridge is a fantastic addition to our community, ensuring safe and scenic access from Sawtell to Boambee Beach for years to come,” Mr Conaghan said.

“This project, delivered with the Australian Rail Track Corporation using Federal Government funding, demonstrates the value of collaboration in creating long-lasting infrastructure.”